This resource gives new and experienced soil scientists basic procedures to use in taking measurements and spotting phenomena whether ex situ or in situ. The authors stick entirely to procedure and avoid theorizing, so the concise descriptions include description and identification in situ, physical properties, soil classification, soil construction and field inspection, engineering properties such as hydraulic conductivity and consolidation as well as shear strength. They include notes on report writing and even provide properties and conversion tables, making this very handy in the field as well as in the lab. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)